NOTE ON PHYSICAL ABILITY:  This is a longer trip (21 days) requiring a degree of stamina and physical ability.  We have some long days on rough roads, and the climate can be very warm and humid in some places. Not all hotels have air conditioning (you are in rural Madagascar where electrical supply is limited).  You should consider joining this trip only if you are in decent physical condition (can do a slow-paced walk for 2-3 miles / 3-5 kms in heat and humidity, on decent, but occasionally rough trails, with modest elevational gain).  We draw your attention to day 5 of the itinerary (The Great Tsingy) where the hike is longer and a bit more arduous (and optional).  

ONE PARTIAL SHARE REMAINS (SHARE FOR 3 NIGHTS ONLY)

 NOT KEEN ON SHARING? SIGN UP TO OUR WAIT LIST

TRIP DATES:  27 October - 16 November 2027 (21 days / 20 nights)

STARTING AND ENDING AT:  Antananarivo

# GUESTS:  14 (One partial share remains) 

WHAT IS A PARTIAL SHARE?

You follow the whole trip on a solo basis (solo accommodation), but at Masoala Lodge, where there are only 7 rooms, occupation would be on a shared basis. 

 

PRICE:  There are two components to the price - LAND SERVICES and PRIVATE CHARTER FLIGHTS: 

1. LAND SERVICES PRICE (ground transport, guides, activities, meals, accommodations):
   
   - Shared accommodation:  US$9,655 /person shared
   
   - Full solo:  US$14,950 (private room throughout the trip)
   
   - Partial solo:  $US12,400 (you will have a solo room throughout the trip save for the 3 nights we spend at Masoala Lodge, where you will be sharing with another guest (same sex).   If we fail to find someone to share with you at Masoala, the full solo price will be applied.
    
2. PRIVATE CHARTER FLIGHTS PRICE:  A maximum of 5,500 euros / person (about US$6,600 at current exchange rates). Prices are quoted in Euros by the charter company.  When it's time to pay for the flights we will convert the Euro price into USD and invoice you accordingly.  We quote a maximum price here to be on the conservative side.  Should the actual price be lower, we will charge you the lower price.  In previous years, the actual price has come to about 70-80% of that figure - but we need to play it on the safe side.  If the airline imposes and fuel surcharges before the trip, these will need to be passed along to our guests.  A full solo guest will need to pay twice the shared price for the private charter flights.  

Why private charter flights? Two reasons:

- Reliability: Chartering our own air transport ensures we can stick to our schedule.  The commercial air carrier in Madagascar is notoriously unreliable.  It is not uncommon that the only flight of the day to a smaller town is delayed by several hours our outright cancelled. 

- Efficiency:  Rural roads in Madagascar are generally very poorly maintained.  A one hour flight can save us an exhausting 12 hour drive (and a lost day).  Moreover, the commercial air carrier does not serve some of the regions we are visiting.    

A NOTE ON SOLO PRICES: This price of this trip is dictated by several factors, including trip length (20 nights), the need for private flights, fixed overhead costs that must be shared by all participants (tour leader, local guides, private flights, ground transport and more).  We can accommodate only one full solo guest or two partial sharing solo guests. 

 

GO TO OUR BOOKING FORM

WHAT'S INCLUDED?

• experienced tour leader to ensure your trip goes as swimmingly as possible;
• all lodging in mid to higher mid-range establishments (in some rural areas, options are limited);
• all meals within Madagascar;
• tea, coffee & bottled water and soft drinks with meals;
• bottled water whilst traveling;
• baggage handling at airports;
• all tours foreseen as part of our trip;
• private charter flights;
• private road transport;
• maritime transfers to and from Masoala Forest Lodge;
• national park and preserve entrance fees;
• local guides for the main road trips, and within the national parks & preserves (English speaking when possible, although a few may be French speaking);
• tips to local guides;
• international airport transfers on arrival and departure
• carbon offsets
• US$200,000 emergency medical evacuation insurance

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED?

• international airfare to and from Madagascar;
• passport or visa fees;
• travel insurance (emergency medical evacuation insurance  of US$200,000 is included but we recommend emergency medical, trip cancellation and trip interruption at a minimum);
• travel inoculations or medications;
• laundry service (available at all lodges / hotels where we stay a minimum of two nights and very reasonably priced)
• alcoholic drinks (except as noted);
• tips for hotel staff, and baggage handlers at airports (sug. $1 per staff / porter, per day of service)
• tips to the Tour Leader (we recommend apx. US$250/person if you are very satisfied;)
• items of a personal nature, including laundry and communications;
• any other items not indicated in the "what's included" list.

NOTES ON THE ITINERARY
Be aware that situations may arise that could compel us to make minor modifications the itinerary / hotels / activities indicated below before the trip begins (we'll let you know) or even during the trip. When travelling in Madagascar, the rule of thumb is "expect the unexpected".

Day 1 — 27 October

Arrive in Antananarivo

Upon arrival at Ivato International Airport, you will be welcomed by a CNH Tours representative and escorted by private vehicle to Au Bois Vert. Set amid tropical gardens near the airport, the hotel offers a peaceful setting in which to recover from your international journey. After checking in, the remainder of the day is deliberately unstructured, giving you time to settle into your room, rest and begin adjusting to the local time.

Depending on your arrival time and energy level, you may wish to stroll through the gardens, relax with a drink or enjoy your first Malagasy dinner. A trip briefing will introduce the journey ahead, including practical information about domestic charter flights, road conditions, accommodations and the varied environments you will encounter. Madagascar visas may be obtained upon arrival at the airport.

Day 2 — 28 October

Antananarivo: Royal Palaces and a Thousand Faces

After a leisurely breakfast and time to recover from the previous day’s travels, set out to explore Antananarivo, widely known as Tana. Built across a series of steep hills, Madagascar’s capital is a lively and visually striking city of tiled roofs, rice fields, church towers, historic buildings and densely populated neighbourhoods. The day provides an introduction to both modern Malagasy life and the country’s complex cultural history.

Visit the historic Upper Town, where royal and colonial-era buildings overlook the sprawling city below. From panoramic viewpoints, gain a sense of Tana’s unusual geography before exploring traditional craft markets and workshops displaying Malagasy textiles, woodcarvings and other locally produced goods. Throughout the day, you will begin to see how African, Asian and European influences have contributed to the island’s distinctive architecture, traditions and identity.

Day 3 — 29 October

Private Charter Flight to Morondava

This morning, transfer to the airport and board your privately chartered aircraft for the flight to Madagascar’s western coast. Flying considerably reduces the amount of overland travel and provides an excellent aerial perspective on the island’s changing landscapes. As you leave the highlands behind, rice fields and densely settled valleys gradually give way to broad plains, dry forests and the coastline of the Mozambique Channel.

Upon arrival in Morondava, transfer to Chez Maggie and settle into your accommodations. The region is best known for its immense baobab trees, some of which have stood for centuries and are among the most recognizable natural landmarks in Madagascar. Toward the end of the day, visit a scenic baobab location for sunset, when the low golden light accentuates the trees’ enormous trunks and sculptural branches, creating exceptional photographic opportunities.

Day 4 — 30 October

Journey to Bekopaka

Today is an adventurous overland journey (up to 10 hours) through the rural landscapes of western Madagascar. Travel along roads and tracks passing small villages, agricultural areas, dry forests and open countryside. The route offers a valuable opportunity to observe daily life away from the larger towns, with scenes of ox carts, roadside markets and traditional homes appearing along the way.

Our first stop will be  Kirindy Forest, one of the finest remaining examples of dry deciduous forest in Madagascar. Although less lush than the rainforests of the east, this habitat supports an extraordinary diversity of wildlife adapted to a pronounced dry season. Accompanied by experienced local guides, explore forest trails beneath towering trees and tangled vegetation while learning about the ecology of this increasingly rare environment.

Kirindy is home to Verreaux’s sifakas, red-fronted brown lemurs, giant jumping rats, reptiles and numerous bird species.

River crossings add to the sense of expedition as you continue north toward Bekopaka, the gateway to Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park. Although travel conditions can be rough and the journey may be long, the experience reveals a part of Madagascar that cannot be fully appreciated from the air. On arrival, check in at Soleil des Tsingy and enjoy a restful evening in preparation for the following day’s exploration.

 

Day 5 — 31 October

The Great Tsingy

Spend a full day exploring the Great Tsingy, the most dramatic section of Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park (apx. 3 hrs) and part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Over millions of years, water has dissolved and sculpted the limestone plateau into an immense stone forest of narrow canyons, caves, fissures and razor-sharp pinnacles. The resulting landscape is among the most unusual geological formations in the world.

The excursion follows a carefully established route through and above the limestone formations. Depending on the selected circuit, the experience may include ladders, narrow passages, secure climbing sections and suspended bridges overlooking the pinnacles. Along the way, watch for Decken’s sifakas, endemic birds and plants adapted to growing in sheltered cracks and pockets within the rock. The Great Tsingy requires a reasonable level of fitness and comfort with heights, but rewards the effort with extraordinary views.

Day 6 — 1 November

The Small Tsingy

Today’s exploration focuses on the Small Tsingy, a more accessible section of the limestone formations near Bekopaka. Although less extensive than the Great Tsingy, the landscape remains impressive, with sculpted pinnacles, caves, narrow corridors and rocky viewpoints. The gentler walking pace allows more time to examine the geology and the vegetation that has established itself within this seemingly inhospitable environment.

Accompanied by a local guide, follow trails through shaded canyons and between weathered walls of limestone. The changing light creates excellent photographic opportunities, particularly where green vegetation contrasts with the pale, sharply textured rock. The excursion complements the previous day’s more strenuous adventure by offering a closer and more leisurely appreciation of the forces that created this remarkable karst landscape.

Day 7 — 2 November

Private Charter Flight to Ranomafana

Leave western Madagascar behind and board your private aircraft for the journey to the island’s eastern rainforest region. The 2 hour flight (don't drink too much coffee before boarding!) reveals another dramatic change in scenery as dry plains and limestone formations give way to greener highlands, cultivated valleys and densely forested slopes. This transition illustrates the exceptional environmental diversity that has allowed so many unique species to evolve in Madagascar.

Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel in the Ranomafana area and settle in. Depending on the flight schedule and available daylight, there may be time for a gentle walk around the village or a visit to the local thermal springs from which Ranomafana, meaning “hot water,” takes its name. Accommodation will be at Thermal, Centrest or Setam hotel, subject to final confirmation.

Day 8 — 3 November

Ranomafana National Park and Flight to Andasibe

Begin the day with a guided exploration of Ranomafana National Park, one of Madagascar’s most important protected rainforests. Trails wind through a lush landscape of bamboo, tree ferns, palms and moss-covered vegetation, with streams descending through steep valleys. The park supports numerous species of lemur, reptile, amphibian and bird, many of which occur nowhere outside Madagascar.

A principal focus will be the critically endangered golden bamboo lemur, discovered in this region in the 1980s and closely associated with stands of giant bamboo. Wildlife sightings depend on conditions and the movements of the animals, but experienced guides will help interpret calls, tracks and activity within the forest. Following the morning excursion, continue by private aircraft to Andasibe and check in at Eulophiella Lodge.

Day 9 — 4 November

Analamazaotra Reserve

Set out early for Analamazaotra Reserve, one of the best-known rainforest reserves in Madagascar. The morning forest is often filled with the resonant calls of the indri, the largest living lemur. Their haunting vocalizations travel over considerable distances as family groups communicate and mark their territories, creating one of Madagascar’s most memorable natural soundscapes.

Guided walks follow forest paths in search of indris and other wildlife inhabiting the reserve. Depending on the conditions, you may encounter orchids, colourful frogs, chameleons, leaf-tailed geckos and a variety of endemic birds. The guides’ knowledge of animal calls, feeding trees and concealed resting places greatly improves the chances of observation, while the dense rainforest is itself an important part of the experience.

Day 10 — 5 November

Mitsinjo Community Reserve

Visit Mitsinjo Community Reserve, an outstanding locally managed conservation initiative near Andasibe. The reserve protects an area of rainforest while supporting environmental education, employment, habitat restoration and scientific research. During your visit, learn how local residents, guides and conservationists are working together to protect the forest and the wildlife that depends upon it.

Walk through the reserve with knowledgeable community guides, looking for indris, chameleons, frogs, geckos and endemic birds. Mitsinjo is particularly well known for its amphibian and reptile diversity, as well as for its successful reforestation programs. The reserve’s accessible wildlife and skilled guides also make it an excellent location for nature photography.

Day 11 — 6 November

Drive to Antananarivo

Depart Andasibe and travel west toward Antananarivo through the landscapes of the Malagasy Highlands (apx. 5 hrs). The route passes forested hills, rice terraces, small towns and agricultural valleys, providing an extended view of rural life in central Madagascar. Although the drive takes several hours, the changing scenery and roadside activity make the journey an interesting part of the experience.

Stops may be made at handicraft workshops or local markets, where artisans produce objects using wood, raffia, recycled materials and other traditional techniques. These visits offer an opportunity to meet local craftspeople and purchase distinctive Malagasy products. On arrival in the capital, check in at Nosy Manga and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Day 12 — 7 November

Private Charter Flight to Maroantsetra

Transfer to the airport and board your private aircraft for the flight to Maroantsetra in Madagascar’s remote northeast. This region receives some of the island’s highest rainfall and supports vast expanses of exceptionally rich rainforest. From the air, the landscape is a dramatic mosaic of forested mountains, river valleys, coastal wetlands and the waters of Antongil Bay.

After landing, transfer to the docks and embark on a boat, heading for Nosy Mangabe Island.  Just a 45-minute boat ride from Maroantsetra, Nosy Mangabe is one of Madagascar's most remarkable protected islands and an ideal introduction to the rainforests of the Masoala region. Situated in the tranquil waters of Antongil Bay, this uninhabited island is covered by pristine tropical rainforest and forms part of the greater Masoala protected area.  

Day 13 — 8 November

After breakfast continue by boat to Masoala Forest Lodge, an intimate wilderness property surrounded by rainforest and accessible primarily by water. The boat journey introduces the beautiful coastline of the Masoala Peninsula, where forested slopes descend almost directly to the sea. After settling into the lodge, enjoy the sounds of the forest and the sense of isolation that defines this remarkable location. Set out with local guides to explore Masoala National Park, the largest protected rainforest area in Madagascar. The park contains an extraordinary range of habitats, from humid lowland forest to coastal vegetation and mangroves. Its remoteness has helped preserve exceptional biological diversity, making it one of the most important conservation areas in the country.

During guided hikes, search for red-ruffed lemurs, white-fronted brown lemurs, helmet vangas, tomato frogs and a wide variety of reptiles, birds and insects. The vegetation is equally impressive, with towering trees, palms, orchids, ferns and countless endemic plants. Trails may be humid and uneven, but the richness of the forest makes each walk a rewarding exploration.

 

Day 14-15 — 9-10 November

Masoala National Park

A second  and third  day in the Masoala region allows you to experience the area at a more relaxed pace and choose activities according to weather conditions and personal interests. Further rainforest hikes may lead into different habitats, providing additional opportunities to observe lemurs, birds, reptiles and the extraordinary plant life of the peninsula.

Alternatively, explore the mangroves by kayak, where sheltered waterways offer a quieter perspective on the coastal ecosystem. Snorkelling may also be possible in clear waters containing coral, tropical fish and other marine life. Those interested in nocturnal wildlife may join an evening excursion in search of frogs, chameleons, geckos and lemurs that become active after dark.

Day 16 — 11 November

Private Charter Flight to Fort Dauphin

Leave the rainforests of Masoala and travel by private aircraft to Fort Dauphin, also known as Tôlanaro, on Madagascar’s southeastern coast. The flight crosses a broad section of the island and offers another opportunity to appreciate the contrast between Madagascar’s mountains, forests, highlands and coastal plains.

Upon arrival, transfer to Croix du Sud and settle into your accommodations. Today is devoted to discovering Fort Dauphin and its surroundings. Set between mountains, lakes and the Indian Ocean, the town occupies one of Madagascar’s most scenic coastal settings. Activities will be selected according to group interests, local conditions and the weather, allowing the day to be tailored to the preferences of the travellers. Enjoy views toward the Indian Ocean, take a gentle walk nearby or simply rest before beginning your exploration of the southeast.

Day 17 — 12 November

Berenty Reserve

Travel through the distinctive landscapes of southern Madagascar to Berenty Reserve (apx. 4hrs). Along the way, observe the gradual transition into the dry and highly unusual spiny forest ecosystem, characterized by octopus trees, euphorbias, baobabs and other plants adapted to prolonged drought. This habitat has an appearance unlike any other forest visited during the journey.

Berenty is famous for its habituated populations of ring-tailed lemurs and Verreaux’s sifakas, which can often be observed at close range as they move through the forest. Guided walks introduce the ecology of the reserve and the behaviour of its lemurs, while also providing opportunities to see birds, reptiles and the extraordinary vegetation of southern Madagascar.

Day 18 — 13 November

Berenty Reserve

Spend a second full day exploring Berenty’s network of trails beneath ancient tamarind trees. Early morning and late afternoon are often the most active periods for lemurs and birds, and your schedule can be adjusted to take advantage of favourable light and wildlife activity. The reserve is particularly well suited to unhurried observation and photography.

Watch ring-tailed lemurs foraging, resting and interacting in social groups, and look for sifakas moving through the trees or crossing open ground with their characteristic sideways leaps. Birdwatching can also be rewarding, with species associated with riverine forest and the drier habitats nearby. Between excursions, enjoy time to relax and absorb the quiet atmosphere of the reserve.

Day 19 — 14 November

Flight to Antananarivo

Transfer to the airstrip and board your aircraft for the return flight to Antananarivo (2 hours). The journey north provides a final aerial perspective on the island’s varied terrain, from the dry landscapes of the south to the more densely cultivated central highlands.

Upon arrival, transfer to Relais des Plateaux spa hotel and settle in for the evening. A farewell dinner provides an opportunity to reflect on the journey, share favourite experiences and celebrate the extraordinary range of landscapes and wildlife encountered over the previous three weeks.

Day 20 — 15 November

Tsarasaotra Bird Park

This morning, we will visit the Mentoring Centre of ANKIZY GASY Children of Madagascar, a local non-governmental organization dedicated to improving educational opportunities for children and young people. During your visit, you will learn about the Centre's educational and vocational programs, meet some of the students and staff, and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and aspirations of local communities. The visit offers a meaningful opportunity for cultural exchange and to see how responsible tourism can support long-term community development. Lunch will be served at the Mentoring Centre before continuing your journey.

Afternoon we will visit Tsarasaotra Bird Park, a privately protected wetland within Antananarivo and a designated Ramsar site of international importance. Despite its location within the capital, the sanctuary protects a valuable freshwater ecosystem containing lakes, reed beds, wooded areas and nesting sites for numerous waterbirds.

Walk along the reserve’s paths and observation areas in search of herons, egrets, ducks, kingfishers and other resident and migratory birds. The park offers a relaxed final opportunity for wildlife observation and photography without leaving the city. The remainder of the day may be used for resting, packing or making final preparations for departure.

As most flights out of Madagascar leave very late at night or in the wee hours of the morning - we have arranged for you to maintain access to your hotel rooms until it's time to head to the airport.

Bon voyage!

 

Day 21 — 16 November

Departure

We count this as a "day" in the sense that at the start of day 24, just past midnight, you'll still be technically in Madagascar, but in our experience, most international flights leave in the very early hours of the morning (ca. 2AM).   We'll arrange a group transfer.  If you have other flight plans, we'll arrange for a private transfer for you (included).

Your journey will have ended after an exceptional exploration of Madagascar’s rainforests, dry forests, limestone formations, wetlands and coastlines. You leave with memories of lemurs, baobabs, unusual geological landscapes and the communities working to conserve one of the world’s most distinctive natural destinations.

 

You will be enjoying the expert services of one or both of the following tour leaders:

ONY RAKOTOARIVELA

Ony Rakotoarivelo was born in Faratsiho, a small town southwest of Madagascar’s capital, Antananarivo. After studying English for seven years and working as a teacher, she became inspired by international volunteers eager to learn about Malagasy culture and traditions. This led her to train as a professional tour guide and later work at the children’s home Akany Avoko, where she served for many years as an English teacher, volunteer coordinator, and sponsorship coordinator.

In 2002, Ony began collaborating with Hilary Bradt on updates to the Madagascar Bradt Travel Guide (a highly recommended guide book - in case you are looking for one), a role she continues today. Since 2015, she has also served as Local Director of the Ankizy Gasy Foundation, supporting vulnerable children and communities across Madagascar. Together with Kasia Bialous (see below), she now manages her own travel company, creating tailor-made journeys that combine responsible tourism, authentic cultural experiences, and deep local knowledge of Madagascar’s remarkable landscapes, wildlife, and traditions.

 

KASIA BIALOUS

Madagascar has been Kasia's home for the past 15 years. She first arrived on the island from her native Poland as a volunteer working in a children’s home, where she also met Ony. Very quickly, she fell in love with Madagascar — its breathtaking nature, vibrant culture, and the warmth of its people.

Two years after her volunteer experience, she returned to Madagascar to create her own NGO, ANKIZY GASY – Children of Madagascar, which today supports nearly 2,000 children by providing access to education and healthcare.

Over the years, traveling extensively across the island has allowed her to discover Madagascar far beyond the guidebooks — its hidden corners, authentic experiences, trusted local guides, and the real stories of everyday life. Today, she  also work as a tour leader, guiding travelers throughout the country and sharing the Madagascar she truly knows and loves.

Together with Ony, she runs a Madagascar travel company specializing in tailor-made journeys across the island.  "Creating unforgettable experiences for travelers from around the world is much more than a profession for me — it is my passion and my life path. Madagascar is also where I met my husband and where we are now raising our two children."

HOTELS

Accommodation throughout the trip is in good quality hotels and lodges, often the best available in any given area. You must recall that we will be traveling to remote regions in one of the least developed countries and at times, options are limited. 

The hotels pictured below are the ones we have tentatively reserved - but there may be some modifications.  In either case, they will be of equal comfort level.

Antananarivo:  Au Bois Vert.  A peaceful oasis of green with a pool, close to the airport. 

 

Morondava:  Chez Maggie

 

Kirindy Forest: Relais du Kirindy

 

Bekopaka: Soleil des Tsingy

 

Ranomafana: Setam Lodge (provisional)

 

 

Andasibe: Eulophiella Lodge (provisional)

 

Antananarivo: Nosy Manga

 

 

Masoala:  Masoala Forest Lodge

 

 

 

Fort Dauphin:  Croix du Sud

 

Antsirabe:  Couleur Cafe

 

 Berenty:  Berenty Reserve Lodge

 

MEALS

All meals are included in this trip. Food in Madagascar at the restaurants and hotels we use is very good and relies quite a bit (when close to the coast) on the catch of the day, otherwise, on locally sourced ingredients / animal protein.  Vegetables are grown almost exclusively without pesticides (because farmers cannot afford them). Vegetarian is always possible, vegan and other more restricted diets (gluten free) may be hard to accommodate in some places. If you are keen on having specific food items, it is advised to bring some with you from home because Malagasy shops are not well-stocked, with the exception of city supermarket chains. 

While under normal circumstances, we shouldn't have to worry about gastro-intestinal issues, it's always better to be safe than sorry and bringing along the necessary medication such as Imodium.